John Ralph Bilbo was an American actor, professional wrestler, and promoter best known for his ring name, Chief Jules Strongbow. He is not to be confused with another wrestler named Francis Huntington, who debuted later. Bilbo had a brief but notable career in wrestling and film.
Personal and Family Life
John Ralph Bilbo was born on January 22, 1906, in the USA as Francis Huntington. He stood tall at 6 feet 6 inches, giving him a commanding presence both in the ring and on screen. Bilbo lived through significant changes in entertainment, transitioning from wrestling to acting and promoting across California.
Career Highlights
Bilbo made his wrestling debut on December 2, 1931, suffering a loss to Ray Richards in Columbus, Ohio. He gained fame as Chief Jules Strongbow and became a well-known figure in the wrestling community, winning the Texas Heavyweight Title on May 11, 1945. His career included various appearances across the U.S. and Canada, and he later ventured into acting and promotion.
Death and Legacy
John Ralph Bilbo passed away on May 13, 1975. His contributions to both wrestling and acting have been recognized by fans and peers alike, ensuring that his legacy continues in the world of sports entertainment. Bilbo’s unique character as Chief Jules Strongbow remains a part of wrestling history.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1956 | December Bride | (as Jules Strongbow) |
| 1941 | Road to Zanzibar | Solomon (uncredited) |